Uruguay gives users free Internet access for a day

MONTEVIDEO, Uruguay (AP) — Uruguay’s state-owned communications company is giving users a day of free Internet access in support of freedom online.

Antel says it is inspired by the Internet blackout led by U.S. search and social media companies against anti-piracy bills in the U.S. Congress. It is offering free net access on Monday.

The company says it has no position on the anti-piracy bills, but wants to strengthen the principle of free access. Although the debate is taking place far from Uruguay, the company says its clients are directly affected.

Among other things, the bill would enable U.S. prosecutors and content owners to block access by credit card companies and search engines to foreign websites accused of fostering copyright infringement.